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Lipoma symptoms and causes

Doctor-led diagnosis and treatment for lipomas

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The condition

Deep Scars

What is lipoma?

A lipoma is a benign, soft lump of fatty tumor that develops just under the skin. It’s a “pillow of fat” that is generally painless and slow growing. It’s not cancerous, so don’t panic! These smooth, moveable lumps can form anywhere, even on your arms and back. Although they are generally more of an aesthetic problem than a medical one, they can be easily excised if they become irritating.

Types of lipomas

  • Conventional lipoma: The most common type, composed entirely of fatty tissue.
  • Fibrolipoma: Part fat, part fibrous tissue.
  • Angiolipoma: Has small blood vessels and may hurt.
  • Spindle cell lipoma: Located on the back, neck, or shoulders and contains spindle-shaped cells.
  • Pleomorphic lipoma: This type has different shapes and sizes of the fat cells.
  • Hibernoma: Very rare, brown fat cells, usually in the neck or shoulders.
  • Intramuscular lipoma: This type of lipoma is found under the skin within the muscle fibres
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The symptoms

Soft lump

They are squishy and soft to the touch.

Painless

Most do not hurt, but some may squeeze nerves or blood vessels and lead to mild pain.

Slow growth

They grow very slowly over long periods of time.

Movable

You can shift them around a bit beneath your skin.

Size

They are often small, about 2 inches or less.

When to see a doctor?
Consultation Is The Key
Can lipoma affect me?

If you develop a lipoma that suddenly starts growing rapidly, you should go see a doctor, as it might be something other than a harmless lump. It’s also a good idea to have it checked if it becomes painful lipomas, particularly if it puts pressure on your nerves or blood vessels. If that lump feels hard, strange or grows in size, you should get it checked out as well. Redness, swelling or signs of infection are other reasons to see a doctor. Also, if it develops into large lipomas larger than 2 inches. Finally, there is a very small chance that what looks like a lipoma is actually a type of cancer called liposarcoma, so, getting a medical opinion is always a good idea, to be sure it isn’t anything serious.

Potential treatment options
The causes
What are the causes of lipoma?

While the precise cause of this growth is not known, there are some common patterns. They are more common in men and women at middle age and often run in families. Occasionally lipomas emerge following an injury, but it’s not known if that causes them. Lipomas are rarely associated with conditions such as:

  • Dercum’s disease:Tender lipomas of the arms, legs, and trunk that are painful.
  • Gardner syndrome: Genetic condition leading to multiple lipomas throughout the body.
  • Madelung’s disease: Multiple painful lipomas of the neck, shoulders, and arms, sometimes associated with heavy alcohol consumption.
  • Hereditary multiple lipomatosis: Harmless lipomas on the trunk, arms and legs, and are inherited.
The risk factors
Who is at risk for lipoma?

Risk factors may include:

  • Obesity: Most lipomas develop from extra fat accumulating in those at risk for being overweight.
  • High cholesterol: High cholesterol can interfere with your body’s ability to metabolize fat and cause lipomas.
  • Diabetes: Diabetes patients have higher fat in their body, which may produce lipomas.
The complications
Hidden Dangers
What will happen if it is left untreated?
  • Pain

    Giant lipomas can be painful if they compress a nerve.

  • Nerve problems

    Lipomas that develop near nerves can cause numbness, tingling or weakness.

  • Limited movement

    A lipoma in a confined space can constrain movement comfortably.

  • Infection

    Lipomas can become infected if injured.

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The prevention
Prevention Of Lipoma With A Healthy Diet
Does healthy eating prevent lipomas?

A diet high in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats may help prevent lipomas. Maintaining a healthy weight may also decrease the risk of fat accumulation beneath the skin that may cause lipomas.

Avoiding processed foods

Reducing intake of foods high in unhealthy fats and sugar is the right approach. Consuming whole foods allows you to maintain a healthy body and may prevent excess fat from accumulating, possibly lowering the risk of lipomas.

Regular Exercise
Does exercise have a role in preventing lipomas?

Regular exercise will keep your weight under control and also prevents fat accumulation. So, it can decrease the risk of lipomas. Physical activity also helps your body move smoothly and promotes good circulation.

Exercise regularly to lower the risk

Aim to get at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days. When you’re more active, your body is healthy and fat doesn’t accumulate, which may even help prevent lipomas.

Keep Cholesterol In Check
Will controlling cholesterol levels help with lipoma?

Yes, it’s important to keep your cholesterol in check. Aside from fat, high cholesterol can also lead to fat buildup in the body, which is the condition that might cause lipomas. The majority of people with a lipoma only have one, but more than one lipoma can grow. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help control cholesterol.

Monitors your cholesterol levels effectively

Exercise, eat healthily and don’t smoke – all of these can help keep your cholesterol in check. Regular checkups with your doctor can help ensure that you keep your cholesterol at a healthy level.

Genetic Link To Lipomas
Does family history play a role in lipoma prevention?

Yes, it is possible if you have a family history of lipomas to be more likely to develop them. You can’t change your genes, but staying healthy and looking out for lipoma signs can greatly help.

Familial multiple lipomatosis: management

In the case of family history of lipomas, you should go for regular checkup with your doctor to seek management of the condition. Although it can’t be avoided, early intervention and monitoring of lipomas can help you manage one if you get it and also minimize potential issues.

Protecting From Injuries
Why do injuries cause lipomas?

In some cases, lipomas may develop following an injury, although it’s not always clear why. Avoiding trauma entirely by using proper gear or avoiding accidents can help lower your chances of developing lipomas after an injury.

Tips to avoid injuries

Use proper protective equipment when playing sports, stay safe with risky activities, and be aware of the area around you to reduce risk of injury. Complying with these steps minimizes the risk of getting injured.

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    Does healthy eating prevent lipomas?
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    Does exercise have a role in preventing lipomas?
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    Will controlling cholesterol levels help with lipoma?
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    Does family history play a role in lipoma prevention?
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    Why do injuries cause lipomas?
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